Arduino Motor Driver Control with L293D
Learn how to control DC motors using the L293D motor driver IC - the foundation of robotics projects like line followers!
What is the L293D Motor Driver?
The L293D is a popular dual H-Bridge motor driver IC that allows you to control the speed and direction of two DC motors simultaneously using an Arduino.
Why do we need a motor driver?
Arduino pins can only supply about 40mA of current, but DC motors need 100-500mA or more! The L293D acts as a "power amplifier" that takes small control signals from Arduino and delivers high current to motors.
Key Specifications:
- Output Current per Channel600mA
- Peak Current1.2A
- Motor Supply Voltage4.5V - 36V
- Logic Supply Voltage5V
- Number of Motors2 DC Motors
L293D Pin Configuration
How the H-Bridge Works
An H-Bridge is an electronic circuit that allows voltage to be applied across a load (motor) in either direction. This enables:
- Forward rotation - Current flows one way
- Reverse rotation - Current flows opposite way
- Stop/Brake - No current or short circuit
- Speed control - Using PWM on Enable pins
| Enable | Input 1 | Input 2 | Motor Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| HIGH | HIGH | LOW | Forward |
| HIGH | LOW | HIGH | Reverse |
| HIGH | LOW | LOW | Stop (Coast) |
| HIGH | HIGH | HIGH | Brake |
| LOW | X | X | Motor Off |